President William Ruto’s apology to Gen Z during the National Prayer Breakfast on Wednesday has sparked a political firestorm, with opposition leaders dismissing the gesture as insincere and offensive to the families of those killed during the June 2024 protests.
Addressing a gathering at Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka’s Tseikuru home in Kitui County on Thursday, the opposition strongly criticized the Head of State’s remarks, accusing him of offering a “conditional apology” that trivialized the gravity of state violence against peaceful demonstrators.
“Gen Z walikufa, hawakufa? You have blood on your hands, Bwana Ruto. He gave a conditional apology. Do you accept it or not?” posed DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, echoing the sentiments of many who viewed Ruto’s words as a political maneuver rather than genuine remorse.
Former Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi went further, mocking the apology: “Ati kama tulikosea natoa msamaha, iko msamaha hapo? William Ruto, take your apology to Sugoi… because you’re going to be one term.”
Former UDA Secretary General Cleophas Malala emphasized the need for repentance, not just words. “Apology ni kuomba msamaha, lakini repentance ni lazima useme ni makosa gani unataka kusamehewa.”
The opposition, buoyed by growing public discontent over economic hardship, governance issues, and police brutality, declared its readiness to unseat Ruto in the 2027 general election.
“Ndio Kenya iendelee, Ruto must go! That is the most important thing,” said former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. “Na yeye anashinda akitupigia kelele ati hatuna agenda. Tuko na agenda. Na agenda ni kufukuza yeye kwanza.”
Kalonzo Musyoka added that Ruto’s administration has violated the Constitution and engaged in impeachable conduct, signaling a tougher opposition stance ahead.
With mounting political pressure and a charged youth movement, opposition leaders believe the tide has turned. “This matter is done,” Gachagua concluded. “Aki hii uchaguzi ingekuwa ni kesho?”
As 2027 looms, the battle lines are being drawn, with the apology episode marking a significant flashpoint in Kenya’s evolving political narrative.
